African Peanut Stew Recipe Vegan: Easy & Delicious Guide

African Peanut Stew is a heartwarming dish celebrated for its rich, creamy texture and bold flavors. This vegan version combines wholesome ingredients like sweet potatoes, tomatoes, and peanuts, creating a stew that’s not only packed with nutrition but also bursting with comforting, earthy tastes.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to explore plant-based meals, this stew offers a delightful balance of spices and sweetness that will satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body.

Perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave something hearty and wholesome, this recipe is incredibly easy to make and adaptable to whatever vegetables you have on hand. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce the flavors of West Africa into your kitchen.

Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that promises warmth, flavor, and a touch of culinary adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

African Peanut Stew is a wonderful choice for so many reasons. First, it’s fully vegan, making it suitable for plant-based diets without sacrificing flavor or heartiness.

The creamy peanut butter adds a luscious texture and a subtle nutty sweetness that perfectly complements the spices and vegetables.

This stew is also incredibly nutritious, packed with fiber-rich sweet potatoes, protein from peanuts and beans, and antioxidants from tomatoes and greens. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for meal prep or family dinners.

Finally, its unique combination of ingredients offers a taste of African cuisine that’s both authentic and approachable, inviting you to explore global flavors in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (such as sunflower or canola)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1-2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed (about 2 cups)
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (smooth or chunky based on preference)
• 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• Chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro, for garnish

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Ladle for serving
• Small bowl for mixing peanut butter

Instructions

1. Heat the oil: Place your pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
2. Add aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Spice it up: Add the smoked paprika, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir constantly for about 30 seconds to toast the spices and release their flavors.
4. Vegetables go in: Add the cubed sweet potatoes and chopped red bell pepper. Stir everything together to coat the vegetables with the spices.
5. Add tomatoes and broth: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices) and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
6. Simmer the stew: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
7. Mix peanut butter: While the stew simmers, place the peanut butter in a small bowl and whisk with a ladle of the hot broth from the pot. This helps to thin the peanut butter so it incorporates smoothly into the stew.
8. Combine peanut butter: Stir the thinned peanut butter mixture back into the pot. This will thicken the stew and add creaminess.
9. Add chickpeas and greens: Stir in the rinsed chickpeas and chopped kale or spinach. Allow the greens to wilt and the chickpeas to warm through, about 5 minutes.
10. Season and finish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, and fresh lime juice. The lime juice will brighten the flavors beautifully.
11. Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for a delightful crunch and fresh herbal note.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra layer of flavor, try roasting the sweet potatoes before adding them to the stew. It brings out a caramelized sweetness that complements the peanut butter beautifully.”

Feel free to swap the kale for collard greens or spinach depending on what you have available. You can also add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or butternut squash for more variety.

If you prefer a thicker stew, reduce the amount of vegetable broth or simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes. For extra protein, add cooked lentils or tofu cubes.

Peanut butter note: Use natural peanut butter without added sugar or salt for the most authentic flavor. If you want a little sweetness, add a teaspoon of maple syrup or agave.

For a spicier stew, increase the cayenne or add a diced chili pepper during step 2. To mellow the heat, serve with a dollop of coconut yogurt or a squeeze more lime.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This African Peanut Stew pairs wonderfully with a side of fluffy rice or warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a gluten-free option, serve with quinoa or millet.

Adding a dollop of coconut yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh chili flakes can elevate the dish even further.

If you want to keep it light, serve the stew over steamed greens or cauliflower rice. For a more filling meal, add a side of roasted plantains or a fresh salad with tangy vinaigrette.

For more hearty and comforting recipes, you might enjoy checking out my Bread And Gravy Recipe or the savory Braised Pork Ribs With Radish Recipe. And if you’re in the mood for breakfast inspiration, don’t miss the delightful Breakfast Wellington Recipe.

Conclusion

African Peanut Stew is a deliciously unique dish that brings warmth and bold flavors to your table. This vegan recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly nutritious, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week.

Its creamy peanut butter base, combined with tender sweet potatoes and fresh greens, creates a satisfying and comforting stew that’s sure to become a favorite.

Whether you’re a fan of global cuisine or simply looking for a wholesome plant-based dinner, this stew offers a perfect balance of taste and nutrition. Give it a try and enjoy a bowl full of vibrant African-inspired goodness that’s bound to nourish your body and soul.

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